Integrating Comments in Video Tutorials

Abstract

Video tutorials are a popular medium for learning to perform different tasks in feature-rich software applications. In existing systems, the comments are generally shown below the video in threads. This separation of video and comments creates cognitive load when users try to link comments with the video. We designed and developed 'VidComm', a prototype interface enabling users to filter comments from different categories and link them directly to the tutorial content – and thus enhancing the existing video tutorial comment system. An evaluation of VidComm suggests that this system helps users find particular information from comments more quickly and accurately than a traditional commenting system.